Pop-Up Cabana: Good Idea?

[August Mom]

We are planning a beach vacation when DS will be 12 months. DS is very fair and, if he takes after mom and dad, will burn very easily. Consequently, I've been thinking about how best to protect him from the sun. I saw some cabanas in the One Step Ahead catalog and in the BabyCenter store. If you've used one or have friends who have used one, please let me know what you think. If you have any brand recommendations, please let me know that as well. Also, do you think it would be better to get a small cabana just for DS or would I get more use out of a larger, family-cabana? TIA

Below are examples of cabanas I'm considering:

http://store.babycenter.com/product/gear/activity_equipment/arches_and_gyms/8086

http://store.babycenter.com/product/safety_health_and_babycare/safety/safety_products_for_toddlers/3777

http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?itemID=1289&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C117%2C43%2C45&KickerID=64135&KICKER

http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?lGen=detail&itemID=1212&itemType=PRODUCT&iProductID=1212

http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?lGen=detail&itemID=1213&itemType=PRODUCT&iProductID=1213

[achace]

My kids never really liked the little pop-up cabanas because they were too small. They really wanted to be out with us. They worked well though for when the kids fell asleep and we moved them in. I would recommend a larger family style one. You might also want to consider the full length swim suits. They are like wet suits (but made with UV safe bathing suit material) and along with a wide brimmed hat provide great protection since you can't always keep them under the cabana anyway.
Alison

[raynjen]

I second the thought about a family sized cabana (or at least big enough to hold the two of you.) I also suggest making sure it comes with some sort of pegs for holding it in place. My other suggestion is one of those hats with the flaps that cover their necks - One Step Ahead has those as well as wrap-around sunglasses.
Have fun!
Jen in Okinawa
Mom to Noelle (10/25/01)